In simple terms, building codes and standards are about protecting people and property — the result being safe and prosperous communities, which is the heartbeat of any culture. Every rule in every ...

Building Safety Month, an annual public awareness campaign led by the International Code Council (ICC), returns on May 1, 2026, with this year's theme, "Built to Last." The campaign highlights how ...

As the United States faces a mounting housing affordability crisis, a debate is intensifying between home builders and code officials over how best to balance costs, safety, and long-term efficiency ...

When Dick Dolby built his house back in 1977, he relied on the common sense and wisdom of his father, brother and other family members skilled in the art of construction. Starting Dec. 1, that kind of ...

In a world where building energy efficiency is increasingly prized, pursued and rewarded, it’s no surprise that it’s also becoming not only expected, but mandated. Energy-related codes and standards ...

Each column, a new author will feature an article from one of the International Code Council (ICC) building, fire, mechanical, plumbing, residential (one and two family), energy conservation, and ...

The compilation ASTM Standards in Building Codescontains more than 1,300 ASTM construction specifications, practices and test methods, and is now available in DVD and online. The document contains the ...

Apartments are safer and more affordable than single-family homes. Why do we treat them like a hazard?

Laurie Schoeman is director for resilience and climate risk reduction in capital at Enterprise Community Partners, a national affordable-housing nonprofit. Ryan Colker is vice president of innovation ...

Aug. 28—Larkspur has passed new building standards to help reduce fossil fuel-related emissions. The City Council voted unanimously on Aug. 20 to adopt two ordinances to increase building ...